Showing papers in "Current Medicinal Chemistry in 1999"

Bioactivities of chalcones.

Abstract: This review outlines the different bioactivities of a variety of chalcones. The cytotoxic, anticancer, chemopreventative and mutagenic properties of a number of chalcones are described followed by an account of various of these unsaturated ketones as antimicrobial agents. The antiviral, antiprotozoal and insecticidal activities of a variety of chalcones are reviewed as well as the enzyme-inhibitory properties and miscellaneous activities of some of these molecules.

Glutathione S-transferases--a review.

Abstract: The Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) form a group of multi-gene isoenzymes involved in the cellular detoxification of both xenobiotic and endobiotic compounds. GSTs have been divided into a number of subclasses, alpha (α), mu (μ), pi (π), and theta (θ). The classification was made on the basis of sequence similarity and immunological cross-reactivity. GSTs show a high level of specificity toward GSH but the electrophilic second substrate can vary significantly both between and within the classes in spite of their sequence similarity. X-ray crystallography and site-directed mutagenesis studies have together elucidated the structure and mechanism of GSTs. Catalysis occurs by conjugation with glutathione (GSH) and the less toxic and more hydrophilic products can then be partially metabolised and excreted. This invaluable service is however disadvantageous during chemotherapy where GSTs have been associated with multi-drug resistance of tumour cells. Levels of expression of different isoforms of GSTs are tissue specific. The variations in expression between normal and tumour cells are of interest and in most cases the levels of GSTs are increased, especially π-GST. Understanding the complex role that GSTs play in drug resistance begins with determining the pattern of isoform expression and the substrate specificities of each isoform. The use of isozyme-specific, GSH analogues as inhibitors to modulate GST activity during chemotherapy is a promising strategy in the battle against cancer. This review attempts to provide a detailed overview of the literature concerning the different classes of GSTs, their function and mechanism and the use of GSTs as therapeutic targets for disease as current at the time of submission

Pharmacology of cannabinoid receptor ligands.

Abstract: Mammalian tissues contain at least two types of cannabinoid receptor, CB 1 and CB 2 , both coupled to G proteins. CB 1 receptors are expressed mainly by neurones of the central and peripheral nervous system whereas CB 2 receptors occur in certain non-neuronal tissues, particularly in immune cells. The existence of endogenous ligands for cannabinoid receptors has also been demonstrated. The discovery of this 'endogenous cannabinoid system' has been paralleled by a renewed interest in possible therapeutic applications of cannabinoids, for example in the management of pain and in the suppression of muscle spasticity/spasm associated with multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injury. It has also prompted the development of a range of novel cannabinoid receptor ligands, including several that show marked selectivity for CB 1 or CB 2 receptors. This review summarizes current knowledge about the in vitro pharmacological properties of important CB 1 and CB 2 receptor ligands. Particular attention is paid to the binding properties of these ligands, to the efficacies of cannabinoid receptor agonists, as determined using cyclic AMP or [ 35 S]GTPγS binding assays, and to selected examples of how these pharmacological properties can be influenced by chemical structure. The in vitro pharmacological properties of ligands that can potently and selectively oppose the actions of CB 1 or CB 2 receptor agonists are also described. When administered by themselves, some of these ligands produce effects in certain tissue preparations that are opposite in direction to those produced by cannabinoid receptor agonists and the possibility that the ligands producing such 'inverse cannabimimetic effects' are inverse agonists rather than pure antagonists is discussed.

ATP-site directed inhibitors of cyclin-dependent kinases.

Abstract: Cyclin-dependent kinases trigger and coordinate transitions between different phases the cell division cycle (CDK1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7). They also play a role in apoptosis (CDK2), in neuronal cells (CDK5) and in the control of transcription (CDK 7, 8, 9). Intensive screening has lead to the recent identification of a series of chemical inhibitors of CDKs: olomoucine, roscovitine, purvalanol, CVT-313, flavopiridol, g-butyrolactone, indirubins, paullones and staurosporine. Some of these compounds display remarkable selectivities and efficiencies (IC50 < 25 nM). Many have been co-crystallised with CDK2 and their interactions with the kinase have been analysed in atomic detail. These inhibitors all act by competing with ATP for binding at the catalytic site. Most inhibitors present a flat heterocyclic ring system that occupies the purine binding pocket as well as form 2 or 3 hydrogen bonds with Glu-81 and Leu-83. The binding modes of these inhibitors are reviewed in this article. Knowledge of the CDK/inhibitor interactions will be of great help to design inhibitors with improved selectivity our potency as well as to generate affinity chromatography matrices for the purification and identification of their cellular targets. The potential use of CDK inhibitors is being extensively evaluated in cancer chemotherapy and other fields such as the cardiovascular domain (restenosis), dermatology (psoriasis), nephrology (glomerulonephritis) parasitology (unicellular parasites such as Plasmodium, Trypanosomes, Toxoplasm,.etc.), neurology (Alzheimer's disease) and viral infections (cytomegalovirus, H.I.V., herpes).

The palmitoylethanolamide and oleamide enigmas : are these two fatty acid amides cannabimimetic?

Abstract: Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) and oleamide are two fatty acid amides which 1) share some cannabimimetic actions with delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol, anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol, and 2) may interact with proteins involved in the biosynthesis, action and inactivation of endocannabinoids. Due to its pharmacological actions and its accumulation in damaged cells, PEA may have a physio-pathological role as an analgesic, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory mediator. However, its mechanism of action is puzzling. In fact, PEA does not bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors transfected into host cells, but might be a ligand for a putative CBn receptor present in the RBL-2H3 cell line. On the other hand, the analgesic effect of PEA is reversed by SR144528, a CB2 antagonist. PEA may act as an entourage compound for endocannabinoids, i.e. it may enhance their action for example by inhibiting their inactivation. Oleamide is a sleep inducing lipid whose mechanism of action is far from being understood. Although it does not bind with high affinity to CB1 or CB2 receptors, it exhibits some cannabimimetic actions which could be explained at least in part by entourage effects. It is likely that oleamide and anandamide have common as well as distinct pathways of action. The 5-HT2A receptor appears to be a target for oleamide but the possibility of the existence of specific receptors for this compound is open. The biosynthesis and tissue distribution of oleamide remain to be assessed in order to both substantiate its role as a sleep-inducing factor and investigate its participation in other physiopathological situations.

Beta-peptides: twisting and turning.

Abstract: Oligomers of beta-amino acids (beta-peptides), which are readily available by standard meth ods either in solution or on solid support, adopt a large variety of different secondary structures in solution and in the solid state. beta-Peptides 4, 5 and 10 fold into a helix with 3 residues per turn and 14-membered H-bonded rings (314 helix) that is left-handed for 5 and 10 and right-handed for 2 (due to the reversal of the chirality of the building blocks), as was clearly demonstrated by two-dimensional NMR-spectroscopy. This helix thermally is very stable in methanol solution upon heating. As shown by NMR- and CD-spectroscopy, it is partially populated even at 100 C (Figure 3). Another helix was dis covered for mixed beta-peptide 8 in methanol solution: it is characterized by 12- and 10- membered turns (Figure 4, left) and its central 10-membered turn has been found in the solid state of a geminally disubtituted beta-peptide (Figure 4, right). This central 10-membered turn was used as a scaffold to attach beta-amino acid residues that prefer a linear (non-helical) conformation (beta-peptide 21): a hairpin (pleated sheet-turn-pleated sheet) structure was determined in solution by NMR-spectroscopy (Figure 5). In contrast to this antiparallel pleated-sheet, a parallel pleated sheet was found for a beta-tripeptide in the solid state. For the first time it was possible to observe reversible peptide folding in MD simulations by studying beta-peptides (Figure 6) and to determine folding pathways and intermediates. beta-Peptides are a new class of promising peptidomimetics. They are resistant against the degradation by proteolytic enzymes such as pepsin, elastase, carboxypeptidase A, pro nase or proteasom 20S. A variety of beta-amino acids (27-34) was shown to be non- mutagenic by Ames tests and beta-peptides 47 and 48 reveal large elimination half-lives of 3 h (for 47) and 10 h (for 48) in the serum of rodents (Figure 7). Conjugates of alpha- and beta- peptides are efficient ligands for the HLA*B27 MHC Class I protein, a five fold increase of binding (2.0 microM for 55) compared to a natural peptidic ligand 51 was observed. Furthermore, beta-peptides are able to mimic natural a-peptidic hormones such as somatostatin. The cyclo-beta-tetrapeptide 57 binds to the five human somatostatin receptors in the micromolar range. In addition, several other non-natural oligomers such as beta-peptide nucleic acids (built from 58 and 59), beta-peptoids (60), oligomers of anthranilic acids and beta-sulfonamido peptides are discussed.

Human milk glycoconjugates that inhibit pathogens.

Abstract: Breast-fed infants have lower incidence of diarrhea, respiratory disease, and otitis media. The protection by human milk has long been attributed to the presence of secretory IgA. However, human milk contains large numbers and amounts of complex carbohydrates, including glycoproteins, glycolipids, glycosaminoglycans, mucins, and especially oligosaccharides. The oligosaccharides comprise the third most abundant solid constituent of human milk, and contain a myriad of structures. Complex carbohydrate moieties of glycoconjugates and oligosaccharides are synthesized by the many glycosyltransferases in the mammary gland; those with homology to cell surface glycoconjugate pathogen receptors may inhibit pathogen binding, thereby protecting the nursing infant. Several examples are reviewed: A fucosyloligosaccharide inhibits the diarrheagenic effect of stable toxin of Escherichia coli. A different fucosyloligosaccharide inhibits infection by Campylobacter jejuni. Binding of Streptococcus pneumoniae and of enteropathogenic E. coli to their respective receptors is inhibited by human milk oligosaccharides. The 46-kD glycoprotein, lactadherin, inhibits rotavirus binding and infectivity. Low levels of lactadherin in human milk are associated with a higher incidence of symptomatic rotavirus in breast-fed infants. A mannosylated glycopeptide inhibits binding by enterohemorrhagic E. coli. A glycosaminoglycan inhibits binding of gp120 to CD4, the first step in HIV infection. Human milk mucin inhibits binding by S-fimbriated E. coli. The ganglioside, GM1, reduces diarrhea production by cholera toxin and labile toxin of E. coli. The neutral glycosphingolipid, Gb3, binds to Shigatoxin. Thus, many complex carbohydrates of human milk may be novel antipathogenic agents, and the milk glycoconjugates and oligosaccharides may be a major source of protection for breastfeeding infants.

Recent advances in the enantioselective synthesis of beta-amino acids.

Abstract: The introductory section of this review presents some of the currently most compelling beta-amino acid targets, according to their structural types: alpha- and beta-aryl substituted, olefinic and alkynyl, alpha, alpha- and alpha,beta-disubstituted, cyclic and conformationally restricted, fluorine-containing, and phosphonic analogous beta-amino acids. The main section highlights some of the very new (1996-1998), promising methodology for the enantioselective synthesis of beta-amino acids, with especial emphasis on catalytic and enzymatic processes, as well as methods based on "chiral pool", self-regeneration of stereogenic centers , diastereoselective nucleophilic additions to prochiral double bonds, and enantioselective reactions in the presence of chiral additives.

Mizoribine and mycophenolate mofetil.

Abstract: Both mizoribine (MZR) and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) are immunosuppressive agents that inhibit the proliferation of lymphocytes selectively, via inhibition of IMPDH. MZR is a nucleoside of the imidazole class, isolated from the culture medium of the mold Eupenicillium brefeldianum M-2166. Although this compound has been found to have weak antimicrobial activity against Candida albicans, it has proved ineffective against experimental candidiasis. Unlike azathioprine, this compound is not taken up by nucleic acids in the cell. Instead, after phosphorylation MZR-5 -monophosphate inhibits GMP synthesis by the antagonistic blocking of IMPDH (Ki = 10(-8)M) and GMP- synthetase (Ki =10(-5) M). The drug has been found to inhibit both humoral and cellular immunity, and on this basis it was developed in Japan as an immunosuppressant. MZR has been shown in animal experiments to lack oncogenicity, and has been shown clinically to be associated with a low incidence of severe adverse reactions. MZR has been registered in Japan for the prevention of rejection in renal transplantation, and for the treatment of lupus nephritis, rheumatoid arthritis and the nephrotic syndrome. MMF is the morpholinoethyl ester prodrug of mycophenolic acid (MPA), which was first isolated in 1896 from the culture media of several Penicillium species. MPA has been evaluated for its unique properties as an anticancer, antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial agent, as well as for its therapeutic use in psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis. MMF was designed to enhance the oral bioavailability of the parent compound. After beneficial effects were observed in animals, the clinical efficacy of MMF as an immunosuppressant in renal transplantation was studied in the United States. In 1995 the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of MMF for the prevention of rejection in renal transplantation, the drug also available on a number of European markets.

Protein kinase C in the treatment of disease: signal transduction pathways, inhibitors, and agents in development.

Abstract: Protein kinase C (PKC) is a family of enzymes that play a ubiquitous role in intracellular signal transduction. Our understanding of the precise role of PKC has evolved considerably as a result of improved methodology and a better understanding of the signal transduction pathways. A number of primary pathways previously attributed to PKC have been re-examined and found to involve other kinases as our understanding of the PKC isozymes has evolved. PKC isozymes appear to play distinct, and in some cases opposing roles in the transduction of intracellular signals. The development of potent and selective PKC inhibitors, including isozyme-selective inhibitors, has opened new avenues for biochemical and pharmaceutical studies. The role of PKC in some of the pathways relevant to cardiovascular, peripheral microvascular, CNS, oncology, immune and infectious disease states are surveyed. A survey of the current generation of potent and selective ATP-competitive inhibitors is provided. The progress of PKC inhibitors currently in clinical development, including LY333531, ISIS 3521 (CGP 64128A), bryostatin 1, GF109203x, Ro 32-0432 and Ro 31-8220, Go 6976 and Go 7611, CPR 1006, and balanol (SPC 100840) are discussed.

The structure-based design of ATP-site directed protein kinase inhibitors

Abstract: The protein kinase family represents both a huge opportunity and a challenge for drug development. The conservation of structural features within the ATP binding cleft initially led to the belief that specificity would be difficult to achieve. This dogma has now been clearly dispelled with the discovery and clinical testing of a group of first generation compounds, which are characterized by a high degree of selectivity towards a variety of oncology targets. The structural basis for selectivity and potency has now been clarified with the crystallization of a number of such targets in complex with inhibitors. The protein kinase inhibitor field is now ripe for the structure based exploitation of additional highly validated targets from a variety of therapeutic areas.

Cannabimimetic fatty acid derivatives: the anandamide family and other endocannabinoids.

Abstract: In agreement with the highly lipophilic nature of (-)-Δ 9 -tetrahydrocannabinol, all the endogenous ligands of cannabinoid receptors identified so far are derivatives of long chain fatty acids. N- Arachidonoylethanolamine (anandamide) and some of its polyunsaturated congeners have been found in mammalian brain and shown to activate the CB1 and, with a lower efficacy, CB2 cannabinoid receptor subtypes. More recently, 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), a widespread intermediate in the metabolism of phosphoglycerides, diacylglycerols and triglycerides, was also found to activate the cannabinoid receptors. The capability of palmitoylethanolamide, an anti-inflammatory metabolite, to activate CB2-like receptors is still being debated. Here we review: 1) the metabolic pathways suggested so far to underlie the biosynthesis and inactivation of anandamide and 2-AG, and 2) the current knowledge of the chemical bases for the interactions of anandamide and 2-AG with proteins of the 'endogenous cannabinoid system' characterized so far, i.e. the CB1 and CB2 receptor subtypes, the membrane 'anandamide carrier', which facilitates anandamide diffusion into cells, and the enzyme 'fatty acid amide hydrolase', which catalyzes anandamide and, to a certain extent, 2-AG hydrolysis in vivo.

The unique properties of dipeptidyl-peptidase IV (DPP IV / CD26) and the therapeutic potential of DPP IV inhibitors.

Abstract: This review deals with the properties and functions of dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP IV, EC 3.4.14.5). This membrane anchored ecto-protease has been identified as the leukocyte antigen CD26. The following aspects of DPP IV/CD26 will be discussed : the structure of DPP IV and the new family of serine proteases to which it belongs, the substrate specificity, the distribution in the human body, specific DPP IV inhibitors and the role of CD26 in the intestinal and renal handling of proline containing peptides, in cell adhesion, in peptide metabolism, in the immune system and in HIV infection. Especially the latest developments in the search for new inhibitors will be reported as well as the discovery of new natural substrates for DPP IV such as the glucagon-like peptides and the chemokines. Finally the therapeutical perspectives for DPP IV inhibitors will be discussed.

Cannabimimetic indoles, pyrroles and indenes.

Abstract: In the course of efforts to develop new nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agents, it was discovered that 1-aminoalkyl-3-aroylindoles have affinity for the cannabinoid brain (CB 1 ) receptor. This led to the synthesis of well over 100 cannabimimetic aminoalkylindoles by the group at Sterling Winthrop, and to the development of structure-activity relationships (SAR) for these compounds. These SAR require a heterocyclic aminoethyl group attached to the indole nitrogen, and a 1-naphthoyl group at C-3 for significant receptor affinity. Other workers subsequently demonstrated that an aminoalkyl group was not necessary for cannabinoid activity, but that an N-alkyl group of four to six carbons was sufficient. This led to the discovery that 1-propyl-3-(1-naphthoyl)indole is a selective ligand for the peripheral cannabinoid (CB 2 ) receptor, and to the development of a series of cannabimimetic pyrroles. Comprehensive SAR for this group of cannabinoids have been developed. Two groups have described cannabimimetic indenes, which have been employed as rigid models for the receptor interactions of cannabimimetic indoles with the CB 1 receptor. There is some evidence that ihe indoles interact at a somewhat different site on the receptor than traditional cannabinoids.

Consequences of IMP dehydrogenase inhibition, and its relationship to cancer and apoptosis.

Abstract: Inosine 5 -monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH) is a rate-limiting enzyme for the synthesis of GTP and dGTP. Two isoforms of IMPDH have been identified. IMPDH Type I is ubiquitous and predominantly present in normal cells, whereas IMPDH Type II is predominant in malignant cells. IMPDH plays an important role in the expression of cellular genes, such as p53, c-myc and Ki-ras. IMPDH activity is transformation and progression linked in cancer cells. IMPDH inhibitors, tiazofurin, selenazofurin, and benzamide riboside share similar mechanism of action and are metabolized to their respective NAD analogues to exert antitumor activity. Tiazofurin exhibits clinical responses in patients with acute myeloid leukemia and chronic myeloid leukemia in blast crisis. These responses relate to the level of the NAD analogue formed in the leukemic cells. Resistance to tiazofurin and related IMPDH inhibitors relate mainly to a decrease in NMN adenylyltransferase activity. IMPDH inhbitors induce apoptosis. IMPDH inhitors are valuable probes for examining biochemical functions of GTP as they selectively reduce guanylate concentration. Incomplete depletion of cellular GTP level seems to down-regulate G-protein function, thereby inhibit cell growth or induce apoptosis. Inosine 5'-monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH, EC 1.1.1.205) catalyzes the dehydrogenation of IMP to XMP utilizing NAD as the proton acceptor. Studies have demonstrated that IMPDH is a rate-limiting step in the de novo synthesis of guanylates, including GTP and dGTP. The importance of IMPDH is central because dGTP is required for the DNA synthesis and GTP plays a major role not only for the cellular activity but also for cellular regulation. Two isoforms of IMPDH have been demonstrated. IMPDH Type I is ubiquitous and predominately present in normal cells, whereas the IMPDH Type II enzyme is predominant in malignant cells. Although guanylates could be salvaged from guanine by the enzyme hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (EC 2.4.2.8), the level of circulating guanine is low in dividing cells and this route is probably insufficient to satisfy the needs of guanylates in the cells.

Inhibitors of p38 MAP kinase: therapeutic intervention in cytokine-mediated diseases.

Abstract: p38 MAP kinase is a member of the family of kinases which mediate intracellular transduction pathways. The activation of this particular MAP kinase pathway is in response to a broad variety of extracellular stimuli. Subsequent downstream events triggered by p38 activation result in the production of IL-1 and TNF-a, suggesting that inhibition of this enzyme may provide a useful therapeutic target for intervention in various diseases mediated by these cytokines. Understanding the biological consequences of p38 activation and inhibition has been the subject of intensive research over the past several years and there is now ample evidence to suggest that inhibition of this enzyme represents a valid approach for target intervention in various cytokine-mediated diseases. Crystal structures of both apo enzyme and enzyme bound to various ligands in conjunction with site specific mutagenesis studies have provided a wealth of information regarding the interactions necessary to result in potent inhibition and selectivity from other kinases. This information has proven useful towards the analysis of previously reported compounds and will provide additional insight towards the design of new compounds and building upon existing SAR.

5-Lipoxygenase: a target for antiinflammatory drugs revisited.

Abstract: Arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase is the key enzyme in leukotriene biosynthesis and catalyzes the initial steps in the conversion of arachidonic acid to biologically active leukotrienes. Leukotrienes are considered as potent potent mediators of inflammatory and allergic reactions which are locally released by leukocytes and other 5-LO expressing cells and exert their effects via binding to specific membrane receptors and, as suggested recently, the nuclear receptor PPARa. Because of the proinflammatory profile of leukotrienes it was assumed that leukotriene biosynthesis inhibitors and leukotriene receptor antagonists have a therapeutical potential in a variety of inflammatory diseases. Clinical studies confirmed the therapeutic value of the antileukotriene therapy in asthma but the results with leukotriene biosynthesis inhibitors in psoriasis, arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease were more or less disappointing. This review summarizes the biochemistry of the 5-lipoxygenase pathway, the pharmacology of FLAP and 5 lipoxygenase inhibitors and discusses possible criteria for the development of these drugs.

Thio sugars : Biological relevance as potential new therapeutics

Abstract: The biological relevance of sulfur containing carbohydrates is gaining substantial attention. Thus the new developments, especially in the synthetic and medicinal chemistry of thio-sugars are critically important for carbohydrate drug design. New studies of biological processes including biosynthetic reactions and enzyme control mechanisms, discovered during the last few years clearly contributed to an understanding of their biological roles. These roles of carbohydrates and thio-sugars in particular through biological processes and diseases are becoming better understood now. These new trends will provide tremendous opportunities for the development of carbohydrates as new potential drugs. The main objective of this article is to address these new promising advances and stimulate continuous development of carbohydrate pharmaceuticals.

Recent advances in the medicinal chemistry of taxoids with novel beta-amino acid side chains.

Abstract: Beta-Amino acids have been recognized as an important class of compounds in the design and synthesis of potential pharmaceutical drugs and also for the study of enzymatic reaction mechanisms. Among the beta-amino acid family, isoserines (alpha-hydroxy-beta-amino acids) are probably the most important members because many of them are potent enzyme inhibitors and they also serve as essential building blocks for biologically and medicinally important molecules such as Taxol. Taxol (paclitaxel) and Taxotere (docetaxel) are currently considered to be the most important drugs in cancer chemotherapy. This review describes recent advances in the chemistry of isoserines and taxoid anticancer agents at the biomedical interface including (i) the development of highly efficient method for the synthesis of isoserine side chains of taxoids and (ii) the synthesis and structure-activity relationship (SAR) study of taxoids featuring discovery and development of the "second generation" taxoid anticancer agents that possess exceptional activities against drug-resistant cancer cells.

Advances in indolo[2,3-a]carbazole chemistry: design and synthesis of protein kinase C and topoisomerase I inhibitors

Abstract: Indolo[2,3-a]carbazoles, their pyrrolo[3,4-c]anellated variants and structurally closely related bisindolylmaleimides represent a biologically highly interesting class of natural compounds which are potential anticancer agents. According to the ongoing literature new and efficient synthetic methods yield a great variety of these compounds which have been reported in detail. The biological activities and the inhibitory activities against the target enzymes protein kinase C and topoisomerase I are also discussed including structure activity relationships. A molecular binding model of the protein kinase C inhibitors with the target enzyme at the atomic level is presented and supported by X-ray crystallographic structures and by molecular modelling studies.

Speculations on difference between tricyclic and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants on their cardiac effects. Is there any

Abstract: The cardiovascular effects and toxicity of tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) have been well documented in medical literature. The most common manifestation of such effects is slowing of intraventricular conduction, manifested by prolonged PR, QRS and QT intervals on the standard electrocardiogram (ECG) and postural hypotension. In contrast to TCAs, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), including fluoxetine and citalopram, are considered to cause less effect on cardiac impulse conduction. In addition, these compounds induced significantly less anticholinergic, antihistaminergic and cardiotoxic side-effects than TCAs. However, there is an increasing number of case reports on dysrhythmias, like atrial fibrillation or bradycardia and syncope associated with fluoxetine and another SSRI treatment and overdose. Although such reports have not been common, they do raise concerns. In cardiac tissues isolated from canine, rabbit, rat and guinea pig hearts we have found that fluoxetine and citalopram inhibited cardiac Na+ and Ca2+ channels. These direct cardiac electrophysiological effects were similar to those of observed for tricyclic antidepressants clomipramine and imipramine. The inhibition of cardiac Ca2+ and Na+ channels by fluoxetine may explain most cardiac side-effects observed occasionally with the drug and mild but significant bradycardia reported during chronic treatment. Our results suggest that fluoxetine and citalopram may have antiarrhythmic (class I + IV type), as well as proarrhythmic properties (due to impairment of atrioventricular or intraventricular conduction and shortening of repolarization). Taking all these into consideration, in depressed patients having also severe cardiac disorders, ECG control may be suggested during fluoxetine and probable another SSRI therapy. The primary goal of this review is to compare these direct cardiac effects of fluoxetine and citalopram to those of previously reported for TCAs. This paper also summarizes the recently observed effects of fluoxetine apparently not related to the blockage of 5-HT transporter based on literature.

Nucleoside and non-nucleoside IMP dehydrogenase inhibitors as antitumor and antiviral agents.

Abstract: IMP dehydrogenase (IMPDH) is an enzyme which catalyzes the NAD-dependent conversion of inosine 5'-monophosphate (IMP) to xanthosine 5'-monophosphate (XMP) at the metabolic branch point in the de novo purine nucleotide synthetic pathway. IMPDH was shown to be increased significantly in cancer cells and therefore considered to be a sensitive target for cancer chemotherapy. By blocking the conversion of IMP to XMP, IMPDH inhibitors lead to depletion of the guanylate (GMP, GDP, GTP and dGTP) pools. Two isoforms of human IMPDH, designed type I and type II, have been identified and sequenced. Type I is constitutively expressed and is the predominant isoform in normal cells, while type II is selectively up-regulated in neoplastic and replicating cells. Two types of IMPDH inhibitors, endowed with antineoplastic, antiviral and immunosoppressive activity, have been discovered so far: nucleoside inhibitors, such as ribavirin and tiazofurin, and non-nucleoside, such as mycophenolic acid. Ribavirin produces IMPDH inhibition via its anabolite 5'-monophosphate. Tiazofurin inhibits the enzyme after metabolic conversion into thiazole-4-carboxamide adenine dinucleotide (TAD), an analogue of the cofactor NAD. It was hypothesized that the inhibitory activity of tiazofurin is due to an attractive electrostatic interaction between the heterocyclic sulphur atom and the furanose oxygen 1' which constrain rotation about the C-glycosidic bond in tiazofurin and in its active anabolite TAD. To check this hypothesis, we studied several C-nucleosides related to tiazofurin and their NAD analogues. Non-nucleoside IMPDH inhibitors are also reviewed.

Microbial models of mammalian metabolism of xenobiotics: An updated review.

Abstract: The utilization of microbes as models for mammalian metabolism of xenobiotics has been well established since the concept was first introduced by Smith and Rosazza in the early seventies. The core assumption of this concept rests on the fact that fungi are eukaryotic organisms that possess metabolizing enzyme systems similar to those present in mammalian systems. Hence, the outcome of xenobiotic metabolism in both systems is expected to be similar, if not identical, and, thus, fungi can be used to predict the outcome of mammalian metabolism of various xenobiotics, including drugs. Utilizing microbial models offers a number of advantages over the use of animals in metabolism studies, mainly reduction in use of animals, ease of setup and manipulation, higher yield and diversity of metabolite production, and lower cost of production. In a continuation to our contribution to this field, this review will outline the results of studies that were conducted over the last seven years to emphasize the similarities between the microbial and mammalian metabolic pathways of xenobiotics through the endorsement of the concept of microbial models of mammalian metabolism .

Multi-component methodologies in solid-phase organic synthesis.

Abstract: Solid-phase organic synthesis, particularly when used in conjunction with combinatorial techniques, is emerging as a revolutionary technology in chemistry. Multi-component reaction systems are particularly valued because several elements of diversity can be introduced in a single transformation thereby expanding the diversity of compound libraries. A variety of multi-component reactions have been successfully adapted for solid-phase technology as described in this review.

The rationale and strategy used to develop a series of highly potent, irreversible, inhibitors of the epidermal growth factor receptor family of tyrosine kinases.

Abstract: The Epidermal Growth Factor receptor (EGFr) was one of the first oncogenes identified, and it, or its ligands Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) and Transforming Growth Factor a (TGFa) are overexpressed in most clinical tumours. As EGF and TGFa are potent mitogens, it appeared that inhibition of EGFr signaling would be a viable anti-proliferative strategy. Screening found several classes of EGFr inhibitor, one of which, the indolinethiones was developed. The SAR, in common with that of other first generation tyrosine kinase (TK) inhibitors was flat, and potency was poor. Rescreening in presence of a thiol, to remove chemically reactive species, identified only two leads, a pyridopyrimidine and a quinazoline. These were developed into a very broad class of EGFr inhibitors, with great potency and selectivity for EGFr, but poor physicochemical properties, and little if any in vivo anti-tumour activity. Meanwhile the complex role of other members of the EGFr TK family in oncogenesis, was becoming apparent, suggesting that the whole EGFr family should be inhibited. The difficulty of finding potent compounds with acceptable pharmacokinetics also suggested that irreversible inhibitors of the TK might produce better in vivo profiles. Modeling suggested that the unusual Cys773 residue might be reached from the 6/7-positions of quinazoline and pyridopyrimidine inhibitors. Inhibitors with acrylamides at these positions proved to be irreversible alkylating agents for both EGFr and erbB-2 with cellular inhibitory activities in the low nanomolar range, and very potent in vivo antitumour activity. Optimized inhibitors had exceptionally potent oral antitumour activity, with negligible cytotoxicity.

Glucagon-like peptide-1, a gastrointestinal hormone with a pharmaceutical potential.

Abstract: Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is an insulinotropic hormone secreted from endocrine cells in the gut mucosa in response to meal ingestion. It is an important incretin hormone; mice with a null mutation in the GLP-1 receptor gene develop glucose intolerance. In addition, it inhibits gastrointestinal secretion and motility and is thought to be part of the "ileal brake" mechanism. Perhaps because of the latter actions it inhibits food intake, but intracerebral injection of GLP-1 also inhibits food intake. The insulinotropic effect is preserved in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, in whom also glucagon secretion is inhibited. Thus upon i.v. GLP-1 infusion blood glucose may be completely normalised. Because its actions are glucose-dependent hypoglycaemia does not develop. However, GLP-1 is metabolised extremely rapidly in vivo, initially by a mechanism that involves the enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase-IV. It is currently being investigated how GLP-1 or analogues thereof can be employed in practical diabetes therapy. Promising solutions include the development of stable analogues and inhibitors of the degrading enzyme.

IMP dehydrogenase: mechanism of action and inhibition.

Abstract: Inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH) catalyzes the conversion of IMP to XMP with the concomitant reduction of NAD to NADH. This reaction is the rate-limiting step in guanine nucleotide biosynthesis. IMPDH is a proven target for immunosuppressive, anticancer and antiviral chemotherapy, and may also be a target for antimicrobial agents. IMPDH is activated by monovalent cations, and one monovalent cation binding site appears to have been identified. The mechanism of IMPDH involves formation and hydrolysis of a covalent enzyme intermediate (E-XMP*) in a reaction reminiscent of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase. Substrates bind to IMPDH in a random order, hydride transfer is fast and NADH release precedes hydrolysis of E-XMP*. The hydrolysis of E-XMP* is at least partially rate-limiting. Two inhibitors, mizoribine-monophosphate and a fat base nucleotide appear to act as transition state analogs. In contrast, MPA inhibits by sequestering E-XMP.

Actions of CRF and its analogs.

Abstract: Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), urocortin, sauvagine and urotensin I form the CRF family. These peptides bind with different affinities to two subtypes of CRF receptor (CRFR), CRFR1 and CRFR2. The latter exists as two splice variants, the neuronal CRFR2α and the peripheral CRFR2β. CRFR is a G protein-dependent receptor which acts mainlv through G s enhancing cAMP production. However. CRFR1 expressed in neutrophils of the spleen in response to immunologic stimulation and psychological stress does not seem to function through G s , as indicated by the inability of CRF to stimulate the cAMP production of CRFR1 + neutrophils. Besides the two receptors, a 37 kD CRF binding protein (CRF-BP) binds several CRF peptides with high affinity. CRFR and CRF-BP do not share a common amino acid sequence representing the ligand binding site. In view of the unusually slow offrate of CRF-BP, it is proposed that CRF-BP provides an efficient uptake of free extracellular CRF. Thus, the time of exposure of CRFR to CRF or urocortin can be limited. At this time, the fate of the ligand CRF-BP complex is unclear. CRFR1 is not only involved in the hypophyseal stimulation of corticotropin release, but hippocampal CRFR1 mediates enhancement of stress-induced learning. CRFR1 may also be involved in basic anxiety. In contrast, at least in the mouse, CRFR2 of the lateral intermediate septum mediates tonic impairment of learning. In response to stressful stimuli or after local injection of high CRF doses, CRFR2 mediates anxiety. Effects requiring CRFR2 can be blocked specifically by the recently developed peptidic antagonist antisauvagine-30

Chemistry and structure activity relationships of bafilomycin A1, a potent and selective inhibitor of the vacuolar H+-ATPase.

Abstract: Bafilomycin A1, a macrolide antibiotic isolated from the fermentation of Streptomyces spp., is a potent and selective inhibitor of vacuolar-type proton translocating ATP-ases (V-ATPases) and was used to study the physiological role of this class of enzymes. An extensive chemical effort on the unusual structure of this macrolide led to the synthesis of significantly different bafilomycin derivatives. None of the new analogues was more potent than the parent compound but provided a significant amount of information about the structural requirements for the inhibitory activity of bafilomycin A1 in particular on chicken osteoclast (cOc) ATPase. The vinylic methoxy group adjacent to a carbonyl function, the dienic system and the hydroxy group at position 7 were recognized to be essential features for bafilomycin V-ATPase-inhibitory activity. This information was utilized to design simplified novel derivatives as inhibitors of bone resorption.

Pharmaceutical VIP: prospects and problems.

Abstract: Recently, multiple receptors for vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) have been molecularly cloned and our understanding of VIP chemistry and mechanisms of action has been broadened. The following review outlines the physiological effects of the hormone from growth regulation, reproduction, bronchodilation, vasodilation and immune interactions to neurotrophism. VIP-based drug design and non-invasive innovative delivery modes are discussed with emphasis on tumor diagnosis and treatment, impotence treatment and neuroprotection.